The Contributions of Sumerian Civilizations to the World

The ancient Sumerians, a civilization that thrived in southern Mesopotamia between approximately 4100 and 1750 BCE, left an indelible mark on the world. Their innovations and contributions span across numerous fields, from mathematics and writing to religious beliefs. This article explores the significant contributions made by the Sumerians and the enduring impact they have had on modern societies.

Invention of Writing and Mathematics

The Sumerians are most renowned for their invention and development of cuneiform writing, the earliest known form of writing which dates back to around 3400 BCE. Cuneiform made it possible for the Sumerians to document their history, culture, and laws, contributing greatly to our understanding of this ancient civilization. Through cuneiform, they were able to record astronomical observations and mathematical computations, which have been instrumental in the development of modern mathematics.

Beyond writing, the Sumerians also made significant contributions to mathematics, particularly with their use of the base 60 system. They introduced the concept of 360 degrees in a circle, with 60 minutes in an hour and 60 seconds in a minute, as well as the division of a year into 12 months, and the division of a day or night into 12 hours. These base 60 numerical systems are still used today, most notably in timekeeping and geography.

Technological Innovations

The Sumerians were not only advanced in written records and mathematics; they also made significant technological advancements. They are credited with the invention or improvement of a wide array of tools and technologies, including the wheel, cuneiform script, arithmetic and geometry, irrigation systems, saws and other tools, sandals, chariots, harpoons, and beer brewing techniques. These innovations not only improved their quality of life but also laid the groundwork for future technological and cultural developments across the world.

Religious Practices and Beliefs

The Sumerians' religious beliefs played a crucial role in their social and political structures. They believed in anthropomorphic polytheism, or many gods in human form, each specific to a particular city-state. The core pantheon included significant deities such as An (heaven), Enki (a healer and friend to humans), Enlil (giver of spells and spirits), Inanna (love and war), Utu (sun-god), and Sin (moon-god). These beliefs provided a framework for social order and influenced every aspect of Sumerian life.

Modern Interpretations and Historical Context

Interestingly, the Sumerians are also mentioned in the Bible, where they are referenced as the “migrants from the east”, the Nephilim, Anunnaki, the Watchers, the Fallen ones, Men of Renown, Giants in Knowledge, and the Sons of God. These biblical references led to the Sumerians being known as the creators of the “Brick culture”. The term ‘Land of Shinar’ in the Bible (Genesis 10:10) is now understood by archaeologists and historians to refer to the region of southern Mesopotamia known as Sumer.

Moreover, the Sumerians' influence is seen in the city Ur, where Abraham is said to have been raised, according to the Bible. Most scholars agree that Ur Kasdim, mentioned in the Bible, corresponds to the Sumerian city Ur (modern-day Tall al-Muqayyar or Tall al-Mughair), located about 200 miles southeast of Baghdad.

Despite their significant contributions, the Sumerian civilization eventually declined due to economic, political, and military pressures. By the 21st century BCE, the Sumerians had lost their distinct identity as a people, with the Elamites taking control of Ur and the Amorites incorporating the Sumerian population into their culture, marking the end of Sumer as a separate entity.